Talking to Brussels-based media representatives via a video link from NATO`s military headquarters in Naples, Italy, Roland Lavoie said, `As long as there are attacks, threats of attacks and incitement of violence against civilians, NATO will act to protect them.`
`A (NATO) ceasefire would require a total cessation of violence from the Qadhafi regime (that) must be verifiable and credible.
A true ceasefire must not be a pause during which the Gaddafi regime can rearm, resupply, regroup or reposition its forces to resume attacks against civilians after Ramadan,` he added.
NATO has flown almost 17,500 sorties over Libya since March 31 to enforce a United Nations-mandated no-fly zone.
On Monday alone - the first day of Ramadan - NATO flew 114 sorties in Libya.
NATO has faced strong international criticism, notably by Russia, for actively providing military support to the Benghazi-based opposition.
Moscow has repeatedly blasted western political and military backing for Libyan rebels, saying the UN resolution did not authorize such a mission.
(Uu.H-AK)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
